The officers who traditionally pounded the streets, talking to residents and businesses, are now also required to carry out investigations and respond to 999 calls.
Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary warned today that budget cuts risk “eroding” neighbourhood policing where the constables on the ground prevent crime and provide reassurance.
It said that stretched forces are struggling to find £2.4 billion of savings, leading to PCSOs and “specials” becoming the mainstay of patrols in many areas.
However, the warning came as official figures showed overall crime in England and Wales had fallen to its lowest level since 1981, suggesting that the reduced numbers patrolling the streets were not having a detrimental effect.
PCSOs have been controversial since their introduction over a decade ago by David Blunkett, then home secretary. Critics of so-called “plastic bobbies” warned from the start that they would replace much more expensive, fully trained Pcs.
more
Police 'too busy' to walk the streets and prevent crime - Telegraph
Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary warned today that budget cuts risk “eroding” neighbourhood policing where the constables on the ground prevent crime and provide reassurance.
It said that stretched forces are struggling to find £2.4 billion of savings, leading to PCSOs and “specials” becoming the mainstay of patrols in many areas.
However, the warning came as official figures showed overall crime in England and Wales had fallen to its lowest level since 1981, suggesting that the reduced numbers patrolling the streets were not having a detrimental effect.
PCSOs have been controversial since their introduction over a decade ago by David Blunkett, then home secretary. Critics of so-called “plastic bobbies” warned from the start that they would replace much more expensive, fully trained Pcs.
more
Police 'too busy' to walk the streets and prevent crime - Telegraph
